Mauti, who had surgery to repair the anterior cruciate ligament in the same knee last season, was hit low on a block by Indiana running back D'Angelo Roberts.

Mauti has had a huge season for the Nittany Lions, on defense and special teams, but he's left his biggest mark as a leader and the unofficial spokesperson during an offseason of turmoil. The admiration and love from teammates was quite evident after the game, with linebacker Gerald Hodges even saying he wished he could donate a knee to Mauti.

Penn State players and coaches, past and present, took to Twitter to wish Mauti the best and, for some, to wonder about the legality of the hit.

Here are some of the highlights:

Coach Bill O'Brien during postgame press conference:"(Mauti) is one of the most special players I have been around. He embodies what Penn State is all about."

Quarterback Matt McGloin:"Make sure you keep Mike Mauti In your prayers. Great player and an even better person. #OneTeam"